Which BMW engines should you avoid?
Image source: Photo by Arteum.ro on Unsplash
When buying a BMW, one of the most important choices isn’t just the model or body style.It’s the engine under the bonnet. BMW has produced some of the finest motors in the world, known for smoothness, performance and longevity. But let’s be honest: not every BMW engine has lived up to that reputation, as BMW needed to make changes and upgrades later on. Some are known for costly repairs, hidden issues and maintenance nightmares that can turn ownership into frustration.
If you’re thinking about buying a new engine or simply want to know which BMW engines to avoid, this guide could save you thousands in future repair bills.
Why Engine Choice Matters
Engines are the heart of any car. A solid BMW engine means years of reliable driving and lower maintenance costs, while a bad choice can leave you constantly chasing faults. At MT Auto Parts, we’ve dismantled and inspected thousands of BMW motors, so we’ve seen exactly which ones perform well and which ones regularly fail.
BMW Engines You May Want to Avoid
1. BMW N47 Diesel Engine (Timing Chain Issues)
The N47 4-cylinder diesel is infamous for timing chain failures. Because the chain sits at the rear of the engine, replacement is extremely labour-intensive and costly. In the UK, having the chain replaced typically costs £1,200–£2,000, depending on the garage and whether other BMW parts are changed at the same time. If ignored, a failing chain can snap and destroy the engine completely, turning a repair bill into the price of a full replacement motor.
The BMW N47 diesel engine was fitted across a wide range of models between 2007 and 2014, including the 1 Series (E81, E82, E87, E88, F20, F21), 3 Series (E90, E91, E92, E93, F30, F31), 5 Series (E60, E61, F10, F11), X1 (E84), X3 (F25), and in some markets, the X5 (E70), as well as several MINI models (R55 Clubman, R56 Hatch, R57 Convertible, R58 Coupé, R59 Roadster, R60 Countryman), making it one of BMW’s most widely used but also most problem-prone diesel engines due to its timing chain issues.
Why avoid it? If the engine fails, repair costs can outweigh the car’s value. It’s usually not even worth repairing the old car, unless you come across a BMW engine for sale with proof of a recent timing chain replacement.
2. BMW N63 V8 Engine (Oil & Cooling Problems)
BMW’s first turbocharged V8, the N63 engine, promised incredible performance but quickly developed a bad reputation. Owners reported excessive oil consumption, failing injectors and cooling system problems, with many engines requiring major work at relatively low mileage. The issues became so widespread that BMW introduced a “N63 Customer Care Package (CCP)” to handle repairs.
This engine was fitted to a wide range of luxury and performance models, including the 5 Series (550i, F10/E60), 7 Series (750i, F01/F02), and SUVs like the X5 (E70/F15 50i) and X6 (E71/F16 50i), making it one of BMW’s most common but also most problem-prone V8s of its era.
Why avoid it shortly? Running costs are sky-high. Even with updates, the BMW N63 engine remains one of the riskiest BMW motors for long-term ownership.
3. Early BMW M60/M62 V8 Engines (Nikasil Lining)
Older BMW V8s from the 1990s, such as the M60 and some early M62 engines, were built with Nikasil cylinder linings. These liners reacted badly with the high-sulphur fuel available at the time, leading to premature wear, loss of compression and eventually major engine failure. While BMW replaced many affected engines under warranty, a few still appear on the used market today, making them a risky buy.
These engines were fitted to models like the 5 Series (E34 530i/540i, E39 535i/540i), the 7 Series (E32/E38 730i, 735i, 740i), and even the E31 8 Series (830i, 840i) — meaning some of BMW’s most iconic 90s cars carried this flaw before the switch to Alusil-lined blocks.
Why avoid it? Unless you know it’s been updated with steel liners, avoid these for reliability concerns.
4. BMW S85 V10 Engines (E60 M5 & E63 M6)
The legendary 5.0L V10, known as the S85, delivers one of the most thrilling sounds and driving experiences of any BMW engine. But it’s also one of the most fragile. Common issues include rod bearing wear, throttle actuator failures and extremely high running costs. mMany owners face expensive preventative maintenance just to keep the engine safe.
This motor was fitted to the E60 M5 saloon (2005–2010), the E61 M5 Touring (2007–2010, very limited numbers) and the E63/E64 M6 coupé and convertible (2005–2010), making it iconic but also one of the riskiest BMW performance engines for long-term ownership.
Why avoid it? Unless you have deep pockets for ongoing maintenance, this engine can become a money pit.
5. S65 V8 (E90/E92 M3)
The high-revving S65 4.0L V8 from the M3 is an enthusiast favourite. This engine delivers sharp throttle response and a spine-tingling exhaust note. However, like its V10 cousin, it suffers from rod bearing wear and throttle actuator failures. Both issues carry expensive repair costs, meaning preventative maintenance is essential to avoid catastrophic engine damage.
This engine powered the E90 M3 saloon (2007–2012), the E92 M3 coupé (2007–2013), and the E93 M3 convertible (2008–2013)/Ccars that are hugely desirable today but demand careful upkeep to run reliably.
Why avoid it? A great engine for collectors, but risky if you want everyday reliability without expensive upkeep.
Safer BMW Engine Choices
Not every BMW motor is trouble-prone. In fact, many are excellent options for long-term ownership. Engines like the M54 inline-six, the B58 turbo six, and the B47 diesel have proven to be far more reliable. These are often the smarter choice if you’re searching BMW motors for sale and want a balance of performance and dependability.
Buying BMW Engines for Sale: What to Watch For
If you’re buying a replacement engine or sourcing BMW motor parts, keep these tips in mind:
Check service history: engines with regular oil changes and documented repairs are worth far more than low-mileage “unknowns.”
Choose original BMW parts: when replacing gaskets, turbos, or sensors, stick to OEM BMW engine parts to avoid repeat failures.
Ask about warranty: Trusted suppliers of BMW engines for sale, like MT Auto Parts, back their engines with clear return policies and testing (T&C apply).
Inspect before you buy: If possible, see compression test results or inspection notes before committing to a used motor.
Final Thoughts
BMW has built some of the best engines in automotive history — but also a few that are best left avoided. The N47, N63, S85, and S65. While powerful, they are often associated with high repair bills and short lifespans. For anyone considering BMWs, doing your homework before buying is critical.
At MT Auto Parts, we specialise in supplying tested, reliable BMW engines, BMW motor parts, and complete BMW motors for sale. Every engine we dismantle is carefully inspected, giving you peace of mind when upgrading or replacing your BMW powerplant.
Looking for a reliable BMW engine replacement? Browse our stock of BMW engines for sale today and keep your Ultimate Driving Machine running strong.
This blog is created by MT Auto Parts for informational and educational purposes only. We are independent BMW specialists and are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to BMW AG or any of its subsidiaries. All trademarks and brand names belong to their respective owners. Information provided here is based on our experience and research, and while we strive for accuracy, we recommend verifying technical details before making decisions regarding repairs, maintenance, or purchases.
